Women and youth in Bethlehem, Free State, saw their lives successfully transformed through Her Story Rising, a project that provided them with the tools and platforms to reclaim their narratives. This initiative set out to change that reality, operating on the truth that when individuals are equipped to tell their own stories, they reshape how their communities see them.
By bringing local artists together, the project used storytelling, writing, performance, and visual arts to spark confidence and social change. The programme launched with an orientation in Bohlokong, establishing a safe space where participants, mentors, and facilitators could align on creative growth, gender equality, and community transformation.
Supported by the National Arts Council under the Presidential Employment Stimulus Programme (PESP), the project transitioned into intensive creative writing and storytelling workshops held at the Dihlabeng Youth Centre. Participants dived into poetry, prose, and narrative performance, learning how to build compelling characters, structure engaging plots, and unpack complex themes drawn directly from their lived experiences. Through practical exercises, peer learning, and hands-on mentorship, the writers
Participants received individualised guidance to refine their work while gaining practical knowledge in editing, publishing, performance, and creative entrepreneurship. Industry mentors also taught them how to package their art for different platforms, navigate the creative sector, establish distinct artistic identities, and identify potential income-generating pathways. The stories eventually moved out of the classrooms and directly into the heart of the community at the Bohlokong New Hall. Through public readings, live performances, exhibitions, and facilitated dialogues, participants showcased their creations to local audiences.
To ensure these voices would not fade after the curtains closed, the project entered a publication and documentation phase at Maluti TVET College. Selected works were edited and compiled into a printed anthology and a digital catalogue, permanently capturing the poetry and short stories that explored identity and social transformation. Ultimately, the true significance of Her Story Rising extended far beyond the individual poems and stories produced. By seamlessly linking artistic development with professional skills, public participation, and cultural archiving, the project helped foster a more inclusive local creative economy.
Get in touch through email at info@amehabiz.co.za, to support the Her Story project
